PART 13

The investigation moved slowly.

Officer Ruiz told me that the department had taken statements, reviewed records, and consulted with prosecutors about potential charges.

A separate child-protection assessment continued.

The systems had different responsibilities, and neither moved at the speed of my anger.

There were evenings I wanted to drive to Brenda’s temporary apartment and demand a confession.

Instead, I made tea, checked that Hailey was asleep, and sat with the frustration until it passed.

One afternoon Nora called about a proposed agreement from Brenda’s attorney.